Kent State Libraries will honor Constitution Day on Monday, Sept. 17 with a public reading of the Constitution and the Bill of Rights.

The reading will begin at noon in front of the University Library on Risman Plaza. In the event of inclement weather, the reading will be moved inside, to the first floor of the library.

“The goal of Constitution Day is to educate the community about structure and workings of the U.S. government. It is not a political event, per se, but a way to promote civics,” said Roman Panchyshyn, the chair of the Libraries Diversity Committee, via email. “Constitution Day allows us to honor men and women that serve in the armed forces, and we hold a reception, cake and soft drinks for all who attend our program.”

The event will begin with a color guard presentation from the Kent State Army ROTC and Air Force ROTC, and there will be a singing of “The Star-Spangled Banner.”

“The library is always excited about this event, because outside of the educational purpose, it allows us to promote the fact that we are the government documents depository for Portage County,” Panchyshyn said.

The event is open to the public and is free. Copies of the Constitution will be provided to those in attendance for the reading.

Taylor Robinson is the libraries reporter. Contact her at [email protected].